Chief Justice of India BR Gavai, on Independence Day, said the Supreme Court is not superior to High Courts. He stressed that both are constitutional courts with equal status.
Additionally, he explained that judicial appointments start with the High Court Collegium.
“The first call lies with the High Court. We cannot dictate them. Only after they agree do names reach us,” he said.
Appointments Must Balance Merit and Diversity
The CJI said the judiciary must draw talent from across the country. He noted that lawyers from several states have joined the High Courts recently.
“We must give space to both merit and diversity,” he said.
He praised President Droupadi Murmu’s rise from a Santhal village to the Rashtrapati Bhavan. He called her journey a symbol of India’s democratic promise. But he warned that India’s vision of equality and justice remains incomplete.
Independence Day Is a Celebration and a Reminder
CJI Gavai paid tribute to freedom fighters. He recalled the Santhal Hul of 1855, the revolt of 1857, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and the Champaran Satyagraha.
The Chief Justice of India also honoured Rani Laxmibai, Birsa Munda, Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, BR Ambedkar, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
He said these events remind citizens to protect liberty, equality, and fraternity. “We must not take them for granted,” he said.
Judiciary Must Guard Rights of All
The CJI urged judges and lawyers to interpret laws in ways that expand freedoms. He said they must protect marginalised groups and uphold every citizen’s dignity.
“No cause is too small,” he said. “What seems minor to one may mean life or dignity to another.”
He called on the judiciary to check any abuse of power. He stressed that the Constitution places people at the centre of democracy.
“Justice must remain open and accessible to all,” he said.
Supreme Court to Get Permanent Flag Post
CJI Gavai announced that the Supreme Court will install a permanent flag post before 24 November. Justice Surya Kant will take charge as the next Chief Justice that day.
“This flag will remind us of our duty to the Constitution and the nation,” he said.
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